Ultrasound-guided Quadratus Lumborum Block for Postoperative Pain Relief After Cesarean Delivery

Ultrasound-guided Quadratus Lumborum Block for Postoperative Pain Relief After Cesarean Delivery

The Quadratus Lumborum (QL) Block is an ultrasound-guided technique described by Rafael Blanco in 2007. The nerves to the lower abdominal wall can be anesthetized by injecting local anesthetics close to the anterior border of the quadratus lumborum muscle. In our randomized, controlled, double-blinded study ultrasound-guided QL-blocks in 20 female patients after cesarean delivery will be compared with a placebo control group of 20 patients to investigate analgesic consumption, pain level, opioid related side effects and mobilization.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients with cesarean delivery
• American Society of Anesthesiologists classification (ASA) < 3
• adequate communication skills
• Body mass index < 32

Exclusion Criteria:

• ASA > 2
• chronic pain
• neurological illness/ neuropathy
• contraindication against local anesthetics